Throughout history, brides have typically worn some form of a headdress during their wedding ceremony. Now, most commonly, women opt for a traditional bridal veil to honor this custom. In years past (before traditional bridal veils became popular), flowers and herbs were chosen to wear in the hair of the bride. Heavily scented flowers and herbs were typically used because of their delightful fragrance. Country brides would form floral wreaths out of wildflowers. But as any Pinterest-junkie may already know, floral headpieces have made a comeback in bridal fashion - this all, of course, juxtaposes the crown jewels and glamorous tiaras worn historically by royals. Alas, we cannot all be Kate Middleton, despite the number of vibrantly blue wrap dresses hanging in our closets.
Now, where do orange blossoms come into the picture? Traditionally, orange blossoms are associated with good fortune. This was a notion shared between continents from China to Victorian England. Not only were orange blossoms used as floral wreaths, but brides also incorporated them in their bridal bouquets. Since orange blossoms are also an important component in making perfume, this also gave the bride a beautiful aroma for the duration of her wedding day.
Queen Victoria of England pioneered bridal fashion, as we picture it now, into the relatively modern age. Another important contribution Queen Victoria had on bridal fashion is the staple of a white or lace wedding gown. It's so interesting and lovely that her wedding attire completely influenced what brides wear in much of the modern world.
By the 1900's, America became enthralled with bridal orange blossoms. Although the style during the 1920's included a veil (typically a Juliet-style veil), brides continued to tuck orange blossoms into the lace of their veils to carry on the age-old tradition of good fortune. Bridesmaids would also carry bouquets that included orange blossoms and groomsmen would wear orange blossom boutonnieres. As orange blossoms began to grow into an exquisite bridal folklore, the 1950's ushered in an area of wax orange blossom replicas. Jackie Kennedy was just one of many 50's brides who honored this tradition through the use of wax blossoms. Making them from wax allowed the blossoms to be more easily obtained due to the fact that northern climates did not allow citrus to flourish year-round.
I adore seeing orange blossoms pop up in contemporary wedding. It gives us a glimpse into the past and a chance to honor our heritage. Not to mention, orange blossoms are delightfully elegant!
images via Pinterest
